2004 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Fiat Idea
To start off, 2009 Fiat Idea is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2009 Fiat Idea. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2009 Fiat Idea. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 318 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Fiat Idea, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, both vehicles can yield 180 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 2009 Fiat Idea | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 318 | Idea |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 47 L |
